
The South Korean government announced plans to institutionalize undercover narcotics investigations and strengthen on-site enforcement authority in response to the evolving sophistication of drug trafficking networks. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Jan. 23 (Korea Bizwire) — The South Korean government announced plans to institutionalize undercover narcotics investigations and strengthen on-site enforcement authority in response to the evolving sophistication of drug trafficking networks.
The measures, unveiled during a cabinet meeting on January 22, are part of the country’s first Basic Narcotics Control Plan for 2025–2029. The plan aims to address the growing prevalence of decentralized, covert drug distribution networks and enhance investigative capabilities.
Currently, undercover operations are limited to cases where investigators do not disclose their identities. The new policy will formalize the use of false identities in undercover operations to infiltrate and dismantle drug trafficking rings more effectively. The government will also expand monetary rewards for tips leading to successful investigations and introduce reduced sentencing for informants who cooperate with law enforcement.
To combat the rising use of “throw-and-fetch” methods—where drugs are left at a specific location for buyers to retrieve—authorities will deploy artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage.
Medical oversight will also be tightened. Physicians will be required to review patients’ narcotics prescription histories for a broader range of substances beyond fentanyl, aiming to prevent overprescription and “doctor shopping.” Starting in February, the ban on self-prescription of narcotics by medical professionals will begin with propofol and gradually expand to other substances. Furthermore, doctors will be mandated to notify patients in advance when prescribing medical narcotics.
The plan also enhances on-site enforcement, allowing authorities to conduct roadside drug tests for drivers and operators suspected of drug use, akin to current measures for drunk driving.
Additionally, the government aims to strengthen rehabilitation support for drug addicts, improve prevention efforts, and introduce tailored management programs for high-risk and vulnerable groups.
These initiatives will be incorporated into a detailed action plan for 2025 as South Korea seeks to curb drug abuse and trafficking through a multifaceted approach.
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)